Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Arizona

In AZ my mother-in-law was living with a married man for 17 years until his death. He left everything to my mother-in-law in his will and appointed her the executor. He helped my mother-in-law with expenses when he was alive. Basically I need to know how much his wife is entitled to and can my mother-in-law claim half of the wife's belongings since she was left all his estate if the wife put up a fight? Also the man had given his wife money for a divorce and was surprised to find that he was still married just before he died.


Asked on 5/25/12, 4:18 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Joyce Johnson-Stovall Johnson Stovall and Associates PLLC

This is an issue that your mother in law has to address with an attorney. I cannot give you legal advice on the issue. Your mother in law is welcome to call our office and make arrangements to discuss the case if she is interested in determining her rights, etc. She can call Stephanie Coulter at 602 462 1004 to make arrangements to talk to me.

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Answered on 5/25/12, 6:50 am
Donald Scher Donald T. Scher & Associates, P.C.

The answer to your questions depends upon what the Will provides. If it was properly drafted, he can give his entire estate to your mother-in-law. Then, the question is, what is included in his entire estate, what is his separate property and what is community property, as he can only give away his 1/2 of the community property. You should consult with an attorney at once.

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Answered on 5/25/12, 8:10 am


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